As part of the endorsement, the News said that voters in the 23rd Congressional District, which includes Chautauqua County, have a rare opportunity to elect a representative with a combination of good judgment, common sense, expertise and vigor.

In the endorsement, the Buffalo News also commented on incumbent Tom Reed (R-Corning), who it calls a likable and decent man, but whose credentials don’t approach Plumb’s level and who is trapped in the crossfire of Washington’s dysfunction.

Rep. Tom Reed (R-Corning)

The news specifically stated that Congressman Reed struggles with his role in representing the Southern Tier, at one time joining a nonpartisan group dedicated to resolving issues while at the same time voting to close the government at the behest of Texas Sen. Ted Cruz in an effort to defund the Affordable Care Act.

Also on Thursday, Reed’s campaign announced that he has received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association.

In a release endorsing Reed, the NRA said that the Corning Republican has a proven record of fighting for Second Amendment freedoms, earning him an ‘A’ rating from the organization. The NRA gave Plumb a ‘?’ rating, based on his failure to return an NRA questionnaire sent to all candidates.